It takes a village

We’ve become a world of spectators. It seems that maybe we’ve adopted the idea that ‘being informed’ is enough, when it comes to social participation. It is an important step in the right direction, but we all know full well that without action there is no movement. An idea can look great on paper, or in a computer mock-up, but they are still just two-dimensional.

It’s difficult to get enough people on the same page, and even more difficult when it involves money. We all know this to be true. This struggle goes on every day in our own lives. But we have to think as a group, and as a group we can make great strides with less individual strain. I believe this philosophy works on every level. If you’re reading this article, you know this week’s theme, which is the upcoming radio and telethon vying for funds for the Magellan Project. Yes, once again we’re asked to give for an undertaking which is for the benefit for the community. And whether we have in the past, or not, we really must consider that only as a group can we effect real change. Expecting governments to consistently provide what we need now, or in the future, on their own, is a risky path. This kind of project merits consideration because it’s looking to fill a present and ongoing need, with a little touch of flair, in the fact the it will be done with a Portuguese flavour. Society being what it is, there will need to be more projects like Magellan, and it will take the same kind of effort from other communities. But our community is being asked to step forward and join in erecting something that will represent the Portuguese, as a landmark, so to speak. A real testament to what the community has contributed the city. But that’s just it, we need to pitch in, the amount of money needed to build a project of this magnitude is staggering. Before the ground is even broken, millions of dollars need to be spent. Few of us can imagine what it takes just to get the project this far. Years in the making, and as always, it boils down to numbers, and the numbers need to grow, as Magellan begins to form.

We need to get involved, to donate, become permanently connected to Magellan. I firmly believe it will be the gift that will keep on giving.
Fiquem bem,

Raul Freitas/MS